The Department of Education Foundations, Adult, and Continuing Education at the University of Jos recently hosted a three-member panel from the National University Commission (NUC), led by Professor Isaac Abiona, for a crucial accreditation exercise. The NUC team arrived at the Naraguta campus on Sunday, November 26, 2023, commencing a two-day evaluation.
Dr. Ahmed Kuye, a senior lecturer in the department, extended a warm welcome to the NUC team on behalf of the department head. Expressing confidence in their preparation for the exercise, he acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the faculty, department, and university management, who ensured necessary funding for the process.
“We are well-prepared for the accreditation; the faculty, department, and university management have played their parts. As a unit, we have made the requisite preparations. We are optimistic, with faith, that everything will go smoothly,” he stated.
Dr. Kuye revealed that the accreditation exercise, initially slated for early 2022, was postponed to 2023. Underscoring the significance of the exercise, he emphasized that the last evaluation took place about five years ago in 2014-2015. A successful accreditation this time would mean the next assessment is scheduled for 2028, providing a significant boost not only for the unit but also for the department, faculty, and the university.
Highlighting the appraisal nature of the exercise, Dr. Kuye noted, “The last exercise was conducted about five years ago in 2014-2015. If this exercise is passed, the next accreditation will be in 2028, providing a boost not only for the unit but also for the department, faculty, and the university.”
Dr. Kuye emphasized that the accreditation serves as a constructive appraisal for the department, identifying areas of improvement. Addressing deficiencies will not only benefit the unit but will also positively impact the students.
During their stay, the NUC team will thoroughly review the records of lecturers, non-academic staff, and students, contributing to the comprehensive assessment of the unit’s academic standards and performance. The meticulous evaluation aligns with standard accreditation procedures, ensuring adherence to national standards.
As the unit eagerly awaits the outcome of the accreditation exercise, the optimism expressed by Dr. Kuye, coupled with the hopeful anticipation for a favorable outcome with divine intervention, reflects the unit’s dedication and confidence in its thorough preparations. Overall, this development underscores the commitment to academic excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement within the University of Jos Adult and Continuing Education Unit.
Report and photo by Tahirudeen Mohammed Omale and Nerat Bulus Ezekiel
